Tim Wakefield, the heart and soul of the Sox pitching staff, is hanging up his knuckles after 19 seasons in the Majors. Wakefield, originally drafted in 1988 by the Pirates as a first baseman . A scout once told him that his lacking skills would restrict him from rising in their organization. Looking for a way to remain relevant, Wakefield began developing his famous knuckleball, stating:

"I just want to be able to say I tried everything I could to make it".

Tim Wakefield was the personification of "Team-First." Often relegated to bullpen, or mop-up duty, Wakefield never complained about his role. He had plenty of memorable ups and downs. His lowest point was likely the final pitch of the 2003 ALCS. In the bottom of the 13th, Wakefield let go of a pitch to Aaron "F&%king" Boone that headed for the foul pole, but made a sudden shift, slamming directly through the heart of Sox Nation.

Thanks Wake! Happy Trails!

The following years would be good to Wake, as the Sox won the 2004 and 2007 World Series. In 2011, Wakefield reached the career milestone of 200 career wins. His numbers never jumped off the page, and sometimes, he looked useless and helpless, but Tim Wakefield's service to the Red Sox, MLB, and the community will be remembered for generations. Thanks Timmy!